Laurie LaFontaine's Page

This is in response to your response to me on May 1. You really pushed my button by saying that I'm uneducated and don't know what I'm talking about in regards to TWH events. After going to my first walking horse show, I was very disappointed as it appeared to me to be a freak show - I couldn't even stay to watch all of it as I was so disturbed. I immediately went to the internet to try and figure out WHY horrendous shoes were put on the horses in the first place. I spent hours investigating the beginnings of this whole shoe business. Was it for a general purpose? I simply couldn't figure it out. Seems that some TN plantation owners thought it would be a good idea to sit up higher on the saddle and big shoes would help him to survey his property. Hmmmmm. Any other benefit? Not that I could find. If you can give me a legitimate reason for the shoes, then please do. And, seriously, do you really think that 5" shoes on the front feet and back legs bent so severally is really PRETTY? If I were a TN walker in one of these events, I'd be down right embarrassed. And for all the folks who read this - do your own research and see for yourself that this is extremely uncomfortable for the horse and yes, painful. Why do you think the government had to step in and start taking "thermographic" pictures of the horses hoofs only to find pieces of glass and nails embedded. You'd raise your foot up high if you had these foreign bodies in your foot! As for me, I will refuse to give any credence to this kind of abuse to these magnificent horses who don't need big shoes on them to be beautiful.

Hi, Well, you sure have a busy schedule. Must be hot showing too. Have a good time! If you think one day you'd like to trail ride, let me know. I have my hubby's horse that is absolutely wonderful. Hubby is an extreme beginner and Mo takes such good care of him. You'd be welcome to ride with me on him!! Stay cool. Good luck at the show.

Hi Laurie,
How was your last show? never made it over there to watch! Anyway, Jean ( from TN trail riders) and a friend of hers are coming over to ride on Thursday morning around 8:00, Possibly Luanne with her mule and my hubby as well. We're gonna ride the trails out back, the ones that they do on the second half of the strolling jim ride. Love to have you join us if you'd like! I know it's early but this way we'll beat the heat! Give me a call or email to let me know and I can give you directions. Hope you're staying cool...

Hi Lauire, I was searching on here and found that you're from
Wartrace too! I have 2 horses, am married, retired as well. Maybe we can meet for a ride? I've only lived here for about a year, moved here from Florida.
Michele

Laurie,
OK you got me with the five kids.
I just got back from riding at the Circle E Ranch over the weekend. It's beautiful with waterfalls and caves. Loved it.
If your thinking about a Buena Vista check out my website www.highcottonsaddles.com. I ride a Buena Vista. 23 lbs with the suspension seat. Maybe you can try my saddle on your horse someday.

Welcome, we have a few states in common. I was born in Ohio, lived in FL, CA,CO. and MI. I'm also married and retired with three gaited horses.
Maybe we can meet on a ride someday.
Jane